Dinner near 54th and 6th

[eo1010]

I have an old friend coming in from San Francisco area. I'm looking for a restaurant for dinner on a Friday night near/easy to get to from her hotel (The London - 54th near 6th). Not too loud or rushed so we can catch up. Other than that pretty much any kind of cuisine will work (though possibly not Asian since she has access to great Asian food). Any thoughts hugely appreciated!

[sgordon]

Second The Modern and Aquavit, both right near there, both fairly low volume rooms, both fantastic lately. Personally I'm fonder of the latter, but then I have a predilection for Nordic food. Not sure what your budget is, either, but Aquavit also offers discounts via Savored on most nights, up to 30% - http://savored.com/nyc/aquavit/

Ma Peche and Bar Americain can both get a bit boisterous - I wouldn't say you couldn't talk, but they can be lively rooms. Also BA is a chain now, so maybe something a little more "only in NYC" would be more interesting for both of you...

[travelmad478]

Bar Americain is at 52nd and 7th--noise level is what I'd call "lively" but it's not too loud to talk. There is also Benoit (55th and 6th), which is quieter. One place that never gets mentioned on this board is Bistro Milano, 55th and 6th, which is a fine Italian place--it doesn't rise to Batali/Bastianich levels but it is entirely serviceable and will fit your needs.

My office is at 54th and 6th, so I eat lunch at all these places fairly regularly.

[eo1010]

These all sound great- I am so glad to have a list for this area.

[Hey19]

As always, Ill second Benoit.

[eo1010]

Terrific - thanks to all. I always find Mid-town challenging!

[orthorunner]

Other nearby options include the Modern (dining or bar room) or Aquavit. Neither should rush you too much, as they are higher-end experiences, though the bar room would likely be less quiet than the Modern dining room or Aquavit for you.

[ellenost]

You should consider Ma Peche (W. 56 St. between 5th & 6th Aves.).

[JiSLi]

Went to a cozy and yummy Italian place in area a few times when trying meeting people near their hotels. I believe it was Il Corso on 55th between 5th and 6th.

[dyrewolf]

I happen to really like Il corso, but it may be a tad too small feeling... FWIW. If you do choose it, getthe short rib, it's awesome